Permitted levels of light blockage on vehicle windows in Virginia are defined by state law. These regulations specify the percentage of light that must be allowed to pass through the window film and glass combination. The measurement used to determine compliance is known as Visible Light Transmittance (VLT). For instance, a VLT of 50% means that 50% of light is allowed to pass through.
Adherence to these regulations is significant for maintaining road safety and ensuring law enforcement visibility into vehicles. The standards are designed to balance privacy with the need for clear observation, preventing obstruction of the driver’s view and aiding in identification during traffic stops. Historically, these statutes have evolved to address concerns about both security and driver safety.